About Me (In My Own Words)
I have had aoritic valvular stenosis with a bicuspid valve since birth, which worsened somewhat at age six due to rheumatic fever. I have known since the age of ten that someday, around my late 40's, it would have to be repaired surgically I have had mostly annual cardiology appointments since then to track and monitor my valve to detect change as (when) it occured.
Really in 2009 my cardiologists said the clock was ticking, and I had about a two - three year window in which to expect surgery. My next check up in Jan 2010 indicated significant change in pressure in the left ventricle. A Trans Esophageal Echo confirmed degradation of the valve leaflets with high levels of calcification, and just like that the window had shortened and surgery was imminent.
One of the nice things about having 39 years of "heads up, you are going to need valve replacement surgery someday " is it gives you a lot of time to research and plan. For the past decade I have known that when it was time, I would have the surgery at The Cleveland Clinic. While there are dozens of excellent choices around the country, and right here in the Dallas area, it was comforting to have made that decision nearly a decade ago and have it reaffirmed annually when checking heartt hospital ratings.
Nearly three years ago, I had decided my surgeon of choice would be Dr. Marc Gillinov. It was also reassurring last year when Robin William's needed surgery he selected "my surgeon". Although at CC, I firmly believe any of their staff surgeons would be on anyones short list.
After my tests were reviewed ay CC in March, they concurred with my cardiologist that now was the time. I was relieved that the surgery was scheduled for 6 weeks out, but the days are slowly ticking by, and it is almost upon me. I will have aortic valve repalcement surgery with an aortice root repair on May 5, 2010 at The Cleveland Clinic. I am very much looking forward to getting my valve replaced, and for the first time in my life, getting to expereince what normal heart function is supposed to feel like!
Mark
49 years old, and lots more to come!
More Info About Me & My Heart
More About Me
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I am from:
Keller, Texas